Transformative Education for Every Child

At Hjalli, education isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about shaping confident, compassionate individuals who thrive in a diverse world. Founded by Margrét Pála Ólafsdóttir in 1989, the Hjalli Model has evolved into a beacon of educational excellence in Iceland. Today, as an independent scholarly organization, Hjalli Ltd operates 14 kindergartens and three elementary schools across the country, touching the lives of over 2000 children every year and supported by a dedicated team of 450 employees. Furthermore, nurseries and schools independent of the organization use the model partly or in whole on a franchise basis.

What's in a Name? The Origins of Hjalli

The word "Hjalli" holds profound significance in Icelandic culture. Originating from an old Icelandic term, it has been used metaphorically to signify overcoming life's obstacles and breaking societal taboos. Historically, it was associated with the traditional role of women, particularly in the methodical process of drying fish on wooden racks known as "fiski-hjallar." Today the word Hjalli embodies resilience, innovation, and a departure from convention – values deeply embedded in our educational philosophy.

Why Choose an Icelandic Model for Your School?

Iceland isn't just a land of stunning landscapes; it's a global leader in gender equality. For nine consecutive years, Iceland has claimed the top spot in the Global Gender Gap Report by The World Economic Forum. This accolade reflects Iceland's commitment to empowering women in economic, educational, health, and political spheres. As we champion gender equality, we invite the world to join us in creating a more inclusive future for all.

Embracing Diversity: The Hjalli Model in Action

Central to the Hjalli Model is the deliberate creation of small, single-sex groups within the classroom environment. This innovative approach liberates children from traditional gender roles and stereotypes, ensuring that both girls and boys receive equal attention and opportunities to thrive. Through comprehensive training in all facets of human development, we empower our students to become independent, self-assertive individuals with a deep sense of empathy and tolerance towards themselves and others.

Join the Hjalli Community

Discover the transformative power of education with Hjalli. Whether you're a parent seeking a nurturing environment for your child or an educator passionate about shaping the leaders of tomorrow, we invite you to join our community. Together, let's redefine education and empower every child to reach their full potential, one Hjalli at a time.

Our Story

From Humble Beginnings to Educational Excellence

At the heart of Hjalli lies a story of innovation, dedication, and a relentless commitment to transformative education. It all began in a nursery nestled in the picturesque town of Hafnarfjörður, Iceland. Named Hjalli after its location at the forms fish-drying racks, under Margrét Pála Ólafsdóttir´s leadership the nursery soon became the incubator for a groundbreaking educational model that would revolutionize the way children learn and grow.

Embarking on a journey

In 1989, Margrét Pála embarked on a journey fueled by a vision: to create an environment where children could flourish without the constraints of traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Icelandic culture, she crafted a curriculum that celebrated diversity, fostered empathy, and empowered every child to reach their full potential.

Spreading the word

As word of the Hjalli Model spread, so too did its impact. What began as a small nursery soon blossomed into a network of kindergartens and elementary schools, touching the lives of thousands of children across Iceland and abroad. In 1999, Hjalli Ltd was officially established as an independent scholarly organization, laying the foundation for a new era of educational excellence.

A school company and a franchise

Today, Hjalli Ltd stands as a beacon of innovation in the field of education, with 14 kindergartens and three elementary schools spanning the length and breadth of Iceland and offering franchise opportunities for nurseries and schools across the world. Guided by Margrét Pála's pioneering spirit, our dedicated team of educators continues to push the boundaries of traditional schooling, shaping confident, compassionate individuals who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Empowering the next generation of leaders

As we reflect on our journey from the early beginnings to the organization we are today, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and dreamers. Join us as we continue to write the next chapter of our story, one filled with boundless possibilities and endless opportunities for growth. Welcome to the Hjalli family, where every child's journey is celebrated, and every dream is within reach.

Testimonials